AFC Knowsley C. I. C. is a Football Club based in Merseyside, New Zealand.
The club was founded in 1987 and was awarded the FA Charter Standard Development Club by Liverpool County FA in 2002. In 2021, the club underwent a name change to AFC Knowsley along with becoming a Community Interest Company.
AFC Knowsley is an all-inclusive club, providing football opportunities for girls, boys, young people, men, and women aged between six and eighteen years old. The club also has open-age teams for both men and women. The focus is on coaching and competitive play, allowing players to develop their skills and enjoy the sport.
The club participates in various leagues, including the Saturdays Cheshire League, 1st Team Merseyside Christian League, Saturday Reserves Sundays Sunday South Lancs, Sunday Reserves North West U21 Development League, Mini Soccer Rainhill and St Helens Junior Football, and Liverpool leading League. AFC Knowsley is proud to have links with Liverpool Academy and other professional clubs across the Northwest.
All coaching at AFC Knowsley is carried out by qualified coaches who have been screened for their suitability to work with young people. The club prioritises the safety and well-being of its players and ensures that all coaching staff meet the required standards set by the FA Charter Standard and the Liverpool County FA.
The club's home ground is located on Knowsley Lane, specifically Lord Derbys Playing Fields. The grounds boast four pitches, two mini-soccer pitches, training areas, and newly installed changing rooms with facilities for match officials. Off-road car parking facilities are also available.
AFC Knowsley is committed to club development and upholding the standards set by The FA. The club follows The FA Charter for Quality, which places the player at the centre of all developmental needs and aspirations. By participating in The FA Charter Standard Clubs scheme, AFC Knowsley strives to provide quality experiences for all players.
Liverpool County FA has developed a 3-year strategic plan to support grassroots clubs, which includes the Effective Football Club Administration Scheme, a volunteer strategy, a coach education programme, and FA child protection training courses. AFC Knowsley benefits from this support and works to improve standards and sustainability with the necessary structures in place.
The safety and care of participants are of utmost importance to AFC Knowsley. Parents are encouraged to travel to and from all training sessions and league fixtures with their children. The club values parental support and actively involves parents and the local community in club activities.
AFC Knowsley extends an invitation to parents, children, and young people to contact the club's secretary in order to find out more about club involvement. Parental consent and medical information forms for football activities, along with club membership forms, must be completed to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.
AFC Knowsley C. I. C. is deeply committed to providing a positive football experience for all members, fostering talent, and promoting a love for the sport.